The Spanish artist Raúl Berzosa has been in charge of painting the official portrait of Peter To Rot, Papuan catechist martyr of the faith and the Christian family, canonized this October 19, 2025 in St. Peter’s Square in the Vatican by Pope Leo XIV. Aciprensa collected the artist’s statements about the painting creation process.
A historic commission on the facade of St. Peter’s
Berzosa, who had already created numerous works for the Vatican’s Philatelic Office, covers for ceremonies in St. Peter’s, and paintings used in the Roman Colosseum’s Via Crucis, acknowledged that never before had one of his works hung on the facade of the Vatican basilica.
“That has happened today, on the occasion of the canonization of Saint Peter To Rot, the first saint of Papua New Guinea, canonized along with six other saints”, he wrote on his official profile, adding a “Deo gratias” as an expression of thanksgiving.
Symbolism of the portrait: fidelity to marriage and faith
- The Bible in the right hand, testimony of his commitment to the Word.
- Two rings on the left, sign of his defense of monogamous marriage against the imposition of polygamy during the Japanese occupation in World War II.
- The catechist’s cross around the neck, which underscores his lay vocation in service to the Gospel.
- The white shirt and blue laplap, typical attire of catechists from Papua New Guinea.
“My intention was for the lighting to come from within the face itself, something serene that engages the viewer and conveys hope”, explained Berzosa.
A family martyr against totalitarianism
Peter To Rot, a lay catechist, was imprisoned and executed in 1945 by Japanese authorities for refusing to renounce his faith and for his firm defense of Christian marriage. His canonization—along with six other new saints—constitutes a milestone for the Church in Oceania, as he is the first saint native to Papua New Guinea.
In a global context where the family and Christian morality are challenged by secularist and globalist ideologies, his figure stands as an example of resistance and fidelity to the Gospel.
Sacred art in evangelizing mission
With this commission, Berzosa consolidates a career marked by service to the Church through sacred art. The portrait, which will remain as the official image of this new saint, not only honors Peter To Rot but also seeks to strengthen the faith of the faithful and remind that holiness also flourishes in lay and everyday life.
“It is an honor and a grace that my work can contribute to evangelization and to the memory of a martyr of the Christian family”, the painter has stated.